The Daytona Beach Bandshell and Ocean Walk Village

Built in 1937 during the Depression, the Bandshell was formed from coquina rocks, right on the beach on the boardwalk section, which is now Ocean Village, a tourist resort and centre.

Back in the 1930's, after semi-completion of the Bandshell, state-of-the-art surround sound was installed, at levels that could be heard by everyone in the audience, which was a treat to folks and something not commonplace in 1930's south. The open air arena was also somewhat reminiscent to a Greek style amphitheatre. The seating could easily fit 4,000 people. The Bandshell was ahead of its time.

Locals came to the ocean in the evenings, many without air-conditioning, to relax next to their sweethearts as the cool ocean breezes refreshed them and the music enthralled. There was dancing, live performances of all kinds, but then the novelty wore off, and like most good things people neglected to realize what a wonderful outlet for the arts they had in their city. With attendance records down, the Bandshell was not used for a while and became decayed. But like the wonderful restorative works of the Miami Beach Preservation League, the Friends of the Bandshell, Inc., the not-for-profit corporation formed in 1996, sprung into action and transformed the once decaying Bandshell to its full glory. Now in full use, shows include annual cheerleader events, musical performances geared for Spring Breakers, country enthusiasts, Black College Week and more.

What is most wonderful about the Bandshell is that concerts are free for everyone. You don't need to be a local to enjoy top-notch entertainment, just bring a folding chair, find a good spot and enjoy. Musical shows include big band, jazz, swing, folk, blues, gospel and country music, to name a few. There are also educational programs that high school and college level students can partake in. Sometimes there are fireworks after the show.

With the tourism boom, the addition of Ocean Walk Village, a resort that has made the Bandshell even more popular in recent years, has added to the atmosphere in this part of Daytona Beach.

Near the Ocean Center, which holds conventions and various big arena-type events, Ocean Walk Village has new groups of restaurants, a movie theatre, Cold Stone Creamery Ice Cream, and various other groups of shops and eateries that cater to every tourist's whim, including the Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Restaurant and more.

If you aren't staying in the resort but want to visit, parking is easy, just park across the street in the garage and walk over the bridge to the ocean. Parking is inexpensive. It's just that simple to have musical fun in the sun!